Tough draw

Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv have been paired with Union Olimpija Ljubljana, Regal Barcelona and Lottomatica Roma in the draw for the top 16 of the Euroleague.

Barcelona, the reigning champions and hosts of this season's final, will pose the toughest test for the Israelis.

Maccabi coach David Blatt said: "Barcelona is the favourite to win the Euroleague. There is no end to their talent. To draw them from the third level is not the best thing, but on the other hand, now we can't meet them in the playoffs. It will be a very competitive group."

The top 16 stage will take place between January 19 and March 3, with the top two teams from the group advancing to the quarter-finals.